Suhua Highway

Introducing Suhua Highway

The Suhua Highway is a provincial highway on Taiwan's east coast. It is a section of Provincial Highway No. 9. Its northern starting point is Su'ao Township, Yilan County, and its southern terminus is Hualien City, Hualien County.

The 118- kilometer coastal road follows the coastline, occasionally winding into the flat estuary delta. Along the way, it offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and the dramatic mountains, making it a world-renowned scenic highway.

Climate and best time to travel

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

The most famous attraction on the Suhua Highway is the Qingshui Cliff, located approximately ten kilometers between Chongde and Heren. Qingshui Mountain, the cliff's summit, stands at an elevation of 2,407 meters. The northern end of the Qingshui Cliff, at kilometer mark 168 on Provincial Highway 9, marks the northern boundary of present-day Taroko National Park.

Recommended play time: 1-2 hours

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

All day

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Most Popular FAQs for Suhua Highway

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Suhua Highway is a famous coastal road connecting Hualien and Yilan, offering some of Taiwan's most stunning scenic views. It plays a crucial role in transportation between the eastern and western parts of Taiwan, and it also serves as a reminder of Taiwan's history of infrastructure development amidst challenging natural terrain.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Suhua Highway runs along the eastern coast of Taiwan, connecting Hualien to Yilan. The best way to access it is by car or taxi. There are no direct metro or bus routes, so it's recommended to rent a car or take a taxi for a more flexible and comfortable journey.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Suhua Highway is open year-round and accessible at all hours. However, the best time to visit is during the day when the views are clearer, and the roads are safer for driving. The cooler months (October to March) offer more pleasant temperatures for outdoor activities.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

There is no entrance fee to travel along Suhua Highway as it is a public road. However, if you plan to stop at certain attractions or parks along the route, small entrance fees may apply, which can be paid onsite.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

No tickets are needed to travel along the highway itself. However, if you wish to book a guided tour or special activities at attractions along the way, it’s advisable to book in advance, especially during peak travel seasons (holidays and weekends).

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

A full exploration of Suhua Highway, including several stops for photography and activities, can take anywhere from half a day to a full day, depending on how many places you choose to visit along the way. Driving the entire highway without stops can be done in about 3-4 hours.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

Must-see highlights include the Qingshui Cliff, the Taroko Gorge, and the beautiful beaches along the highway. The Suhua Highway is known for its picturesque coastal views, mountain landscapes, and small coastal towns that are perfect for short visits and photography.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours may be available for specific areas or attractions along the highway, particularly in Taroko Gorge. These tours are mostly available in Mandarin, but some English-speaking guides may be available if arranged in advance.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

Some of the best viewpoints include Qingshui Cliff, the Taroko Gorge viewpoints, and the coastal vistas along the way. The dramatic cliffs and crystal-clear waters offer great photo opportunities throughout the drive.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start from Hualien, heading south along the highway. Make stops at the Qingshui Cliff for panoramic views, then continue to Taroko Gorge for hiking and nature exploration. Afterward, you can visit the coastal beaches and towns for some relaxation before heading toward Yilan.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits are not recommended for exploring the Suhua Highway due to safety concerns on winding coastal roads. However, some attractions along the route may offer special tours or light shows during specific festivals, so it's best to check in advance.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The highway can be quite crowded during weekends and public holidays, especially in the summer months. The least crowded times are weekdays, particularly in the early mornings or late afternoons.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

There are rest areas and small roadside shops along Suhua Highway, where you can stop for snacks, drinks, and supplies. Toilets are available at most rest stops, and there are local restaurants in the towns you pass through.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The highway itself is accessible by car, making it suitable for elderly and children. However, some of the more rugged trails and viewpoints may not be accessible to people with mobility challenges. Be sure to check specific sites for accessibility information.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is commonly accepted at smaller shops along the highway, but cards and mobile payments are also widely accepted at larger rest stops and attractions. It's a good idea to carry some cash for smaller transactions.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are local restaurants along the highway offering fresh seafood, traditional Taiwanese meals, and snacks. Towns like Hualien and Yilan have a wider variety of dining options, including international and vegetarian-friendly restaurants.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are widely available at many restaurants along the highway, and some towns offer vegan and halal food. However, availability may vary, so it’s recommended to check in advance or ask the locals for guidance.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are various hotels and guesthouses in Hualien and Yilan. For a more scenic stay, you can also find eco-lodges or beachside accommodations along the highway.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

Nearby attractions include Taroko Gorge, Farglory Ocean Park, and Qixingtan Beach. These sites are easy to combine in a day trip, as they are located along or near the Suhua Highway.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops are available at some rest stops and towns along the highway. Typical souvenirs include local handicrafts, indigenous art, dried fruits, and Taiwanese snacks like pineapple cakes.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

After visiting Suhua Highway, you can continue your trip by car, taxi, or bus. Renting a car is the most flexible option for exploring more of the East Coast, including Taroko Gorge and the towns along the way.